Publications in renowned scientific journals are the currency of science. For you as a scientist, it is crucial to make your research visible and to publish your findings. This is what dubious publishers and fraudulent publication plattforms are trying to exploit.
Dubious journals, also known as predatory journals, pursue a business model in which you are offered paid publication of your scientific work without a quality assurance process and editorial processing being guaranteed, as is customary with reputable journals. Contents of these dubious journals are often not indexed in the relevant specialist databases and thus remain hidden from the scientific community.
However, it is not always easy to recognise the black sheep. For example, such providers fake a peer review procedure or list renowned scientists as members of the editorial board, although they know nothing about it. Often a professional website and names reminiscent of renowned publishers and magazine titles pretend to be serious. Some dubious journals and publishers even contact (especially young) scientists directly by e-mail and specifically ask for contributions.
If you are considering a publication in a journal that is not known in your professional circles, you should examine it carefully. Evaluation portals and checklists can be an orientation aid. Our open access team will also be happy to advise you.
Further information
Predatory Publishers: Evaluation criteria and checklists
Fact Sheet: Pseudo Journal (Science Media Center)
Support
Open Access Team of the University Library
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